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The Particle Physics and Particle Astrophysics group at the University of Sheffield is seeking to recruit an enthusiastic post-doctoral research associate to work with Prof. Dan Tovey and Dr. Adam Brown on the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) liquid xenon dark matter search experiment at SURF in South Dakota. LZ is currently the world’s most sensitive dark matter experiment. The post-holder will analyse LZ data to search for low energy nuclear recoil signals for WIMP dark matter, and also contribute to the maintenance, operation and calibration of the experiment. Experience of estimation and modelling of backgrounds to low energy nuclear recoil signals would be an advantage. The post-holder will also be expected to contribute to the production of Monte Carlo simulation samples for the experiment. The post is available from 1 October 2025 for a duration of 6 months initially, however it is expected that awarded funding will soon be released by STFC to extend the post by a further 18 months (24 months total). Further extensions are subject to future STFC Consolidated Grant funding bids.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Contribute effectively to the analysis of data from the LZ experiment, with a focus on the search for low energy nuclear recoil signals of WIMP dark matter.

• Contribute to the maintenance, operation and calibration of the LZ experiment.

• Contribute to the estimation and modelling of backgrounds in the LZ experiment.

• Contribute to the production of Monte Carlo background simulations for LZ.

• Prepare papers for journals/presentations in-house, in-collaboration or at national/international conferences or seminars to disseminate research findings.

• Write supporting documents to contribute to and support the work of the research group

• Read academic papers, journals and textbooks to keep abreast of developments.

• Plan for specific aspects of research programmes.

• If given a particular hypothesis to examine, plan for your own contribution up to three months ahead, incorporating issues such as the availability of resources, deadlines, project milestones and overall research aims.

• Coordinate and liaise with other members of the research group over work progress. Supervise research team/activities if required.

• Continuously monitor and check results. The unpredictability of research means that daily planning needs to accommodate new developments.

• Plan several months in advance to meet deadlines for journal publications and to prepare presentations and papers for collaboration meetings and conferences.

• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Person Specification 

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Further Information

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on Monday 1 September. This will consist of a brief presentation (with a maximum of 3 slides) and interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing Monday 25 August. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact hicks-hr@sheffield.ac.uk.

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We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

What we offer

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.

• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.

• Generous pension scheme.

• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.

• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).

• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.

• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes  integrated with our Academic Career Pathways

• A range of generous family-friendly policies

  • paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies

  • support for those going through the menopause

  • paid time off and support for fertility treatment

  • and more

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.